Wilson School Board elects Jenny Denney president, Bernard McCree vice president during reorganization

Jenny Denney was elected president of the Wilson School District Board of School Directors at the board’s Dec. 2 reorganization meeting, and Bernard McCree was elected vice president, the board announced after a series of nomination and voice votes.

The meeting opened with judge Nevius administering oaths to newly seated members, including Dr. Amy Kennedy, Stephanie Cocker and Katherine Royer. After roll call confirmed eight members present and one absent, the board moved into officer elections.

Dr. Amy Kennedy nominated Jenny Denney for president, saying Denney “has been a fabulous vice president over the past two years.” With no other nominations, the board approved Denney by voice vote. Denney said, “I am honored, by your trust and confidence in me, and a little scared because Mrs. Cocker left really big shoes to fill.”

Denney then sought a nomination for vice president. Mrs. Stephanie Cocker nominated Bernard McCree, citing his contributions and thoughtful questions over the last two years. With no other nominations, the board approved McCree by voice vote.

The board also appointed the administrative assistant to the superintendent, Mrs. Burkholder, as board secretary and set that position’s salary at $0.00, and appointed all non-officer board members as assistant secretaries; those actions were approved by voice votes. The board then voted to continue existing district policies by roll call (8 yes, 0 no).

The reorganization meeting included routine procedural items and brief remarks welcoming new members. President Denney noted that, by her count, this appears to be the first time a majority of the board has been female, calling the milestone “especially exciting” for students in the district.

The board adjourned after completing the reorganization and routine business.